blog: jamie-dupree

U.S. quickly sends aid to decimated islands in Bahamas

— As Hurricane Dorian moved up the eastern seaboard on Wednesday, avoiding a direct hit on the Florida coastline, American Coast Guard and military assets were quickly trying to extend aid to thousands of people on a string of islands in the Bahamas, whose homes and communities were devastated by Dorian in the past few days.

"They've got a situation in the Bahamas that few have seen before," President Donald Trump told reporters after a hurricane briefing in the Oval Office.

Esper: U.S. military to "airlift USAID personnel and supplies" to Bahamas along with assessment teams to help open up airfields for relief flights, U.S. defense secretary says per pool reporter @Elizabeth_McLau

“Thank you to our US Coast Guard for all your heroic work during these hurricanes,” said Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-AZ).

“Floridians are ready to help,” said Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL). “Any supplies being shipped or brought by boat will be exempt from duties and fees.”

Scott and fellow GOP Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) sent a letter to President Trump, asking him to temporarily relax visa requirements for people from the Bahamas, to allow many to enter the United States and stay with family.